MEP calls for speedy EU help for redundant workers

Nationalist MEP Simon Busuttil has called on the EU to act faster on requests being made by member states to gain assistance through the newly set-up European Globalisation Fund (EGF) and obtain help for redundant workers.

Speaking during a meeting of the European Parliament's Budget Committee in Brussels on Thursday, Dr Busuttil commented on the first request made by France last March under this fund about which the EU Council has still to make a decision.

"This is too long and the procedure must be speeded up. Workers must receive EU support and they must receive it quickly, when they need it most," he said.

The French request was made with respect to lay-offs from Peugeot and Renault carmakers. The European Parliament's Budgetary Committee is being asked to give the green light for an EU assistance package of €3.8 million.

The Commission has already responded favourably to the request but still needs the formal approval of the member states and the European Parliament.

The EU executive yesterday also announced the approval of another two requests by Germany and Finland.

Dr Busuttil was appointed spokesman on the EGF on behalf of the EPP-ED group.

Earlier this month Malta filed a request under this fund asking for €700,000 to be used for intensive training programmes with respect to the 683 persons who were laid off from VF and Bortex textile companies. A decision by the European Commission is expected by mid-November.

The European Globalisation Fund provides up to €500 million each year to support the reintegration into the labour market of workers who lose their jobs due to globalisation.